Almudaina Palace

Right next to the cathedral stands the Palau Reial de l'Almudaina — a royal palace with over 1,000 years of history. It was built in the 10th century as a Moorish fortress (Alcázar) and converted into the royal palace of the Mallorcan crown after the Christian reconquest in 1229. Today, it serves as the official summer residence of the Spanish royal family — King Felipe VI welcomes dignitaries here in August.

The visit is worthwhile mainly because of the Gothic hall (Saló del Tinell) with its pointed arches, the royal apartments with furniture from the 17th–19th centuries, the small Capella de Santa Anna (Romanesque-Gothic style mix), and the magnificent view from the windows of Parc de la Mar and the cathedral.

The S'Hort del Rei gardens below the palace are freely accessible and a shady oasis with Arabic water basins, sculptures (including a bronze egg by Joan Miró), and palm trees. Ideal for a short break after visiting the cathedral and palace.

Honestly: Compared to Spain's great palaces (Alhambra, Alcázar of Seville), the Almudaina is modest. But in combination with the cathedral and only 10 minutes walking distance from each other, the detour is worth it — especially since the view alone is worth the entrance fee.